funeral home

Prepared by Illya D'Addezio.

In the U.S., the funeral service industry is relatively new. Until the 20th century, funerals in the U.S were organized by family and neighbors and held at home. People were often buried on family property. As communities became larger and more established common cemeteries began to be used. Funeral homes were later established to relieve the family of the logistical problems presented by a death.1 Funeral homes kept track of their "customers" in ledger books; often recording details of the deceased, where they were to be buried; and who paid for the funeral.